Future Hall of Famer Rice may not suit up for 21st season

Jerry Rice could have played his last down in the NFL.

The NFL’s all-time leading receiver was mulling retirement Sunday, after Broncos coach Mike Shanahan told him that he would not be the team’s No. 3 wideout.

His agent, Jim Steiner, said Rice wanted to close out his career no lower than a third receiver.

“That’s what his goal was,” Steiner said. “That’s what he wanted.”

Rice was checked out of his hotel in Denver. Steiner said Rice was in San Francisco, and a decision on the future most likely would come today.

The 42-year-old Rice signed with the Broncos this summer in hopes of playing a 21st season with a winner. Hampered by a nagging foot injury, Rice caught only four passes for 24 yards in the preseason and had trouble getting open.

Denver kept six receivers on its final roster, including Rice, Darius Watts, Charlie Adams and Todd Devoe.

The Philadelphia Eagles filled their need for a big running back, claiming Lamar Gordon off waivers from the Miami Dolphins. Second-year pro Bruce Perry was released to make room for Gordon.

Also, the Jaguars placed linebacker Jorge Cordova on injured reserve with a knee injury.

Cordova, a third-round draft pick in 2004, is still recovering from left knee surgery after tearing a ligament during training camp last season. The pass rushing linebacker/defensive end also spent last year on injured reserve. To replace him, the Jaguars claimed linebacker Tracy White off waivers from the Seattle Seahawks.

The New York Jets acquired offensive lineman Steve Morley from the Green Bay Packers for an undisclosed draft choice.